Hurricane Melissa Strengthens to Category 4, Threatens Jamaica and Haiti
Hurricane Melissa has rapidly intensified into a Category 4 storm as it moves northwest through the Caribbean Sea, and the National Hurricane Center has issued urgent warnings for the islands in its path. As of Sunday morning, Jamaica is under a Hurricane Warning, indicating that dangerous hurricane conditions are expected, while parts of Haiti and southeastern Cuba are under a Hurricane Watch, meaning hurricane conditions are possible.
Satellite images have shown that Melissa’s maximum sustained winds have surged to nearly 140 miles per hour, with higher gusts possible. Forecasters predict that the hurricane could continue to strengthen, potentially reaching Category 5 intensity before making landfall. This makes Melissa the most powerful storm to threaten Jamaica in more than 35 years, since Hurricane Gilbert struck in 1988. The storm is expected to reach Jamaica Monday night or Tuesday morning, with southeastern Cuba impacted later on Tuesday.
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The hurricane is moving slowly, at just 3 to 5 miles per hour, which increases the risk of prolonged and catastrophic rainfall. The National Hurricane Center has warned that Melissa could dump between 15 and 30 inches of rain across southern Hispaniola and Jamaica, with isolated areas receiving up to 40 inches. This rainfall is expected to trigger life-threatening flash floods and landslides. Eastern Cuba is forecast to see 6 to 18 inches of rain, creating a similar risk of flooding and dangerous landslides. In addition, the southern coast of Jamaica could face a life-threatening storm surge of 9 to 13 feet above ground level.
Officials in Jamaica have urged residents to take all precautions seriously. The country’s National Emergency Operations Centre has been activated, regional shelters are open, and the National Water Commission has emergency protocols ready to ensure hospitals, children’s homes, and correctional facilities receive water if supply is disrupted. Authorities have also warned about potential hazards such as displaced crocodiles during flooding. Meanwhile, the U.S. Navy has ordered non-essential personnel and families to evacuate the base at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, as eastern Cuba prepares for the storm.
Tragically, Melissa has already claimed lives in the region. In Haiti, three people died due to landslides and falling trees, while the Dominican Republic reported at least two deaths from flooding and storm-related incidents. Thousands have lost water service, and evacuations have been carried out in vulnerable areas. Residents are being urged to stay informed, avoid unnecessary travel, and take shelter as the hurricane approaches.
With its slow movement and intensifying strength, Hurricane Melissa is creating a dangerous situation across the Caribbean. Authorities warn that catastrophic flooding, landslides, and life-threatening storm surge are likely, and they continue to emphasize that preparations must be completed immediately. This storm is not to be underestimated, and its impact could be devastating for Jamaica, Haiti, and neighboring islands in the coming days.
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